Minutes - Public Works Committee - 10/18/2011

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COMMITTEE BUSINESS Case #1: Consider Vacation of Right -of -way at 14241 Fluorine Street NW City Engineer Himmer reviewed the staff report and presented the resident's request to vacate a portion of the right -of -way to provide reasonable use of his front yard. If approved, the issue of who pays for the cost can be determined. Dion McDevitt, 14241 Fluorine Street NW, stated his new garage meets all setbacks and code requirements but the City wants the road to come almost up to his garage, which will eliminate his front yard. City Engineer Himmer presented a sketch of an off -set cul -de -sac for the park that would fit within the confines. He noted the grades are flat and wetlands are present but this option should work. City Engineer Himmer advised of the need to assure the City maintains not only the cul- de -sac, but also drainage and utility easements so if it is vacated, the City should maintain a 10- foot drainage and utility easement for snow storage. Chairperson McGlone asked when the new garage addition was built. Mr. McDevitt stated it was completed two weeks ago. City Engineer Himmer stated the new garage meets all setbacks and is not an issue. However, the existing structure does not comply with setbacks so it is currently a legal non - conforming structure. Chairperson McGlone asked whether the legal non - conforming status could be lost if this easement is vacated. City Engineer Himmer answered that could occur if the lot is squared off. Chairperson McGlone asked whether the City would be getting enough easement so it is not a later issue. City Engineer Himmer stated the City needs at least five feet beyond trails for snow storage and access to mow. Councilmember Elvig asked where the utility services are located. Public Works Director Olson advised utilities are to the north for that subdivision, which blocked the ability to continue the roadway. Chairperson McGlone felt, from a planning perspective, a road was constructed without a "bubble" on the end, which showed the future intention of connecting neighborhoods as they Public Works Committee / October 18, 2011 Page 2 of 12